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Published on 11/23/2025
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The Renewed Rivalry: Arkansas vs. Texas Ignites the SEC
The Renewed Rivalry: Arkansas vs. Texas Ignites the SEC :
Few rivalries in college football boast a history as rich and a future as anticipated as the showdown between the Arkansas Razorbacks and the Texas Longhorns. Once a staple of the Southwest Conference, this border battle has been reignited with Texas's recent move to the Southeastern Conference, bringing with it a fresh wave of intensity and high-stakes matchups. The storied tradition, marked by legendary games and passionate fan bases, is once again front and center on the national stage. As these two programs navigate the competitive landscape of the SEC, their rivalry promises to deliver thrilling encounters for years to come.
Longhorn Triumph: Arch Manning's Historic Performance in Latest Clash :
The most recent chapter of this heated rivalry saw the No. 17 Texas Longhorns secure a decisive 52-37 victory over the Arkansas Razorbacks on November 22, 2025, in Austin. This high-scoring affair was highlighted by a historic performance from Texas quarterback Arch Manning, who became the first player in program history to record a passing, rushing, and receiving touchdown in a single game. Manning threw for a career-high 389 yards and four touchdowns, demonstrating remarkable efficiency with a 21.6 yards per completion average. Despite Arkansas keeping it close in the first half, the Longhorns pulled away in the third quarter with three consecutive touchdowns, ultimately setting a new program record for most points scored in an SEC game.
A Look Back: The Storied History of a Border War :
The Arkansas-Texas rivalry dates back to their inaugural meeting in 1894, a game Texas won 54-0, marking their largest victory in the series. For decades, these programs were mainstays of the Southwest Conference, producing many memorable battles that shaped college football history. Iconic matchups include the 1964 game where Arkansas upset No. 1 Texas on their way to a national title, and the legendary 1969 'Game of the Century' between No. 1 Texas and No. 2 Arkansas, a contest which President Richard Nixon attended. While Texas holds a commanding 58-23 lead in the all-time series, Arkansas has claimed several significant victories, especially since 2000, including a 40-21 win in 2021.
The SEC Reunion: Rekindling an Old Flame :
The dynamic of this rivalry shifted dramatically when Arkansas departed the Southwest Conference for the SEC in 1992, leading to an infrequent schedule of matchups. However, with Texas's official entry into the SEC in 2024, the rivalry has been fully rekindled. The SEC has recognized the historical significance, establishing Arkansas and Texas as permanent opponents from 2026 through 2029, ensuring annual clashes. This re-establishes a regional animosity that has long been cherished by older fans, especially in Arkansas, eager to see regular contests against their historic foe.
Beyond the Gridiron: Recruiting and Fan Sentiments :
The rivalry extends beyond game day, impacting crucial recruiting battles for both programs. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian recently emphasized the importance of maximizing late-season home games for recruiting efforts, especially with top high school athletes visiting for matchups like the Arkansas game. For Arkansas fans, the intensity of this rivalry has never waned, with many considering Texas their most despised opponent, often channeling the same venom Longhorn fans reserve for Oklahoma or Texas A&M. This deep-seated animosity, while perhaps not always reciprocated with equal fervor by all Texas fans due to other rivalries, ensures that every game between these two teams carries an extra layer of emotional weight and pride.
The Road Ahead: Future Showdowns and Rivalry Stakes :
With the SEC solidifying future schedules, the Arkansas-Texas rivalry is poised to remain a prominent fixture in college football for the foreseeable future. The confirmed annual matchups from 2026 to 2029 mean that both fan bases can look forward to consistent, high-stakes contests. For Texas, these games represent an opportunity to solidify its standing within the new conference and to vie for College Football Playoff contention. For Arkansas, facing a historic rival in the SEC offers prime opportunities to upset a ranked opponent and boost recruiting momentum, particularly during seasons where conference wins have been elusive.
A Legacy Continues: The Enduring Spirit of Competition :
The rivalry between Arkansas and Texas is more than just a series of football games; it's a cultural touchstone representing regional pride and a century of shared history. The recent Longhorn victory, fueled by Arch Manning's record-setting performance, only adds another memorable chapter to this enduring saga. As Texas integrates fully into the SEC, the frequency and intensity of these matchups are guaranteed to escalate, bringing new energy to an old classic. Fans on both sides will continue to circle this game on their calendars, eager to witness the next thrilling installment of a rivalry reborn.